The drive up to The Remarkables is one of those that feels like an adventure before you even get there. It takes about 40–45 minutes from Queenstown, climbing up a mix of sealed and gravel road. In summer, it’s pretty straightforward (though still steep and winding), but in winter you’ll want to be ready with chains, conditions can change fast. It is $15 to get through the gates.

There are a few pull offs on the way where you can stop and take in the views over Lake Wakatipu and back towards Queenstown, definitely worth pulling over if it’s clear. At the top, even if you’re not skiing, you get huge views out over the mountains and across the basin. On a good day, it’s one of the best lookouts around.

Quick tips:
- Always check the road conditions before heading up, especially in winter.
- Chains are often required, practice putting them on before you go.
- If you’re not keen on the drive, the shuttle from town is super easy.
- Don’t forget sunscreen, even in winter, the alpine sun is strong.
- Outside of winter months, the drive up is $15 to help maintain the roads off peak season.